The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) on Wednesday unveiled the Commonwealth’s 30th public solar array at Gifford Pinchot State Park in York County.

The solar array — installed at the Quaker Race Day Use Area — is part of the DCNR’s commitment to “clean energy and cost-saving innovation, as well as the Commonwealth’s progress as a national leader in renewable energy,” according to a press release.

The solar array also represents the DCNR’s 30 years as a leader in climate efforts throughout the state. The DCNR was established on July 1, 1995.

“This project uses clean energy from the sun and provides shade for cars in the parking area, modeling a practical way we can take climate action and serve visitors,” DCNR Secretary Cindy A. Dunn said. “For 30 years, DCNR has been managing Pennsylvania’s natural resources with sustainability at the forefront. With leadership from Governor Shapiro, we continue to focus on the stewardship that strengthens communities and enhances our quality of life.”

The new 342-kilowatt solar array, which will also provide shade for an ADA-accessible picnic area, is expected to save taxpayers more than $45,000 annually and will reduce the DCNR’s carbon footprint by more than 163 metric tons per year.

That carbon offset is equivalent to removing 38 passenger cars from Pennsylvania roadways, the press release said.

Alongside a 410-kilowatt array near the park’s sewage treatment plant, the park’s solar arrays are expected to save more than $100,000 annually.

Additionally, solar arrays on public land in Pennsylvania support Governor Josh Shapiro’s PA PULSE initiative, which aims to power half of Pennsylvania’s government operations with renewable energy by 2026.

“Governor Shapiro and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources continue to prioritize sustainability on our public lands, which is a win for Pennsylvanians,” said Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation President Marci Mowery. “Making conscious investments of this type ensure our parks and forests will remain healthy, safe places to visit for present and future generations.”

The DCNR is committed to sourcing 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with solar infrastructure playing a large role in that goal.

Last year, the DCNR signed a contract with McClure Company — a Harrisburg-based mechanical construction, engineering and energy service — to install upgraded infrastructure and cut emissions at 38 state parks and five forest districts.

The DCNR says its clean energy initiatives support Pennsylvania jobs and are projected to save the Commonwealth more than $40 million over the next two decades.